Anne’s book pick about the climate crisis

Title: Just Cool It! The Climate Crisis and What We Can Do. A Post-Paris Agreement Game Plan, by David Suzuki and David Hanington

A recommendation by Anne Randell, director and previous chair of GBF

Published by: Greystone Books Ltd., David Suzuki InstituteClimate change is one of the most pressing crises in our world today. Although some misinformed skeptics do not believe in the seriousness of it, there are many facts and figures, based on scientific evidence, that prove that it is a significant and serious concern for all of us.David Suzuki wrote the book’s preface which details many factors which lead to our collective concern about global warming and the slow motion disaster we now refer to as climate change. He includes the additional vulnerability that Canadians face as a northern nation. The impacts are greater in polar climates and these changes are real for farmers, fishers, hunters, loggers, hydrologists and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Suzuki issued an urgent plea to everyone that we must act now and “if we step up our efforts, we can create a healthier and more just world for everyone”.

The 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change will only get the world to half the cuts that experts believe are necessary to stop the damage from rising sea levels, food and water shortages and increased extreme weather, droughts and flooding. Getting the planet back on track will be difficult, but it is not impossible. Now is the time to act.Part One is titled The Crisis and includes:

1) The Science - Ice Age studies, feedback loops and Greenhouse effects.
2) Consequences and Impacts - extreme weather, water and food; learnings from the Arctic ice, Antarctica and the oceans; human health and mental health issues; impacts on birds and animals; exacerbation of world conflicts and refugee crises; and even the effect on outdoor hockey!
3) Obstacles and Barriers - greenhouse gas emissions, political intransigence, trade deals, reliance on fossil fuels, transportation needs climate change deniers, economic barriers and population growth.

It will take nothing short of a revolution to turn things around. The main solutions are those that will shift us away from fossil fuels as quickly as possible. Moving to alternative sources of energy and protecting, restoring and rebuilding carbon sinks are essential to our future. Many solutions require international, national and local regulations and incentives and it seems that the barriers to combating global warming are often more political and psychological than technical. We can’t just talk and study…..we must ACT! We can make this world a better place if we stand up and speak out now to make the necessary changes required to stop climate change before its too late.

Anne accepting a gift for her term as chair of Georgian Bay Forever

Anne Randell is a long-time volunteer and supporter of Georgian Bay Forever. She has served as the Chair of the Fund Development Committee, a Director, and just recently finished a term as Chair. GBF is stronger thanks to her passion and volunteerism. At GBF, we are always hoping to connect with passionate people. It can even start with a book and author recommendation. If you want to submit one, please contact the education committee for consideration. We are looking for books that tell stories and or provide information that will help to illuminate and engage our fellow Georgian Bayers on protecting the water. Please contact us with the subject line Book Club Recco at info@gbf.org.